“Do you know," Peter asked, "why swallows build in the eaves of houses? It is to listen to the stories.” ~ J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan

10.20.2008

Autumn's magic

I am busy.

These wet leaves tell the whole story. I am not sure words are necessary. As much as I hate raking leaves, I would love to have some time in which to do so. But I am busy, and luckily my leaf-raking days are gone - someone else's job now - but still. That time would be much appreciated.

I have been running for days. It is our busy season; I am up to my ears in pictures of children & paperwork & lists of unreturned phone calls & emails to be sent & orders to be entered into the computer & explanations & re-orders & complaints from parents who swear they ordered pictures but have no proof. I am in need of some magic. I am need of my muse - where is that little bird? Has she flown away to an even warmer climate? Is she hiding among those leaves in the front yard? Because, of course, that's where the magic is - I know that, truly I do, but lately I just can't find it.

Maybe I am trying too hard.

Last night I decided I would make an alphabetical list of magic items - cast a spell, change my life. I would start with A. Amethyst. That sounds magical, doesn't it? But the Alabama tomato I'd bought for my sandwich tasted quite magical, so maybe A stands for Alabama tomato, I thought. Then what? Could I go through the rest of the alphabet & list magical things that really exist for me? Right now? Could I use that list to include things about autumn, my busy season, my stressful season? Let's see.

Starting with B.

bonfires on the shore of the lake

church bells ringing across the cool evening air

dog-eared book pages marking my favorite spots

eating pecans picked up from the ground just 5 feet from my front door

Jaime - I walked around the yard at lunchtime & picked up pretty leaves. I haven't done that since I was a child. I wouldn't be doing it now if it were not for this blog. I am so thankful to've discovered this little world, to have it teach me to open my eyes. I plan on saying so at our Thansgiving table.